Frozen Fruit Salad Recipe
This Frozen Fruit Salad is the perfect refreshing treat for hot days or any festive gathering. With a creamy base made from cream cheese and whipped topping.
it’s packed with delicious fresh fruits like strawberries, bananas, and pineapple, offering a delightful combination of sweetness and texture.
Ideal for both casual get-togethers or special occasions, this dessert is incredibly simple to prepare, and the frozen version makes it even more refreshing.
Ingredients
-8 ounces cream cheese, softened
-2 cups whipped topping, plus more for serving
-1 pint strawberries, diced
-2 large bananas, chopped and diced
-20 ounces crushed pineapple, drained
Instructions
Start by softening the cream cheese, either by letting it sit at room temperature or microwaving it briefly.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and the whipped topping. Beat them together until smooth and well blended.
Next, add the diced strawberries, chopped bananas, and drained crushed pineapple to the cream cheese mixture.
Stir gently to combine, ensuring all the fruits are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Once the fruit and cream cheese mixture is well combined, transfer it into a serving dish or a loaf pan for a uniform shape.
Spread the mixture evenly, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and place it in the freezer. Let it freeze for at least 4 hours, or until solid. You can also prepare it the day before for convenience.
Once the fruit salad is frozen, remove it from the freezer and let it sit for a few minutes to soften slightly for easier serving.
To serve, scoop the frozen fruit salad into individual bowls or plates. You can add a little more
whipped topping on top for extra creaminess and garnish with a few fresh fruit slices for added color.
Store any leftover fruit salad in the freezer in an airtight container. Make sure to bring it out a few minutes before serving to let it thaw slightly for the best texture.
How to Make
For this easy dessert, the key is to allow the cream cheese to soften thoroughly so it blends well with the whipped topping.
This step ensures the base is smooth and creamy, giving the salad its signature texture. The variety of fruits used here also makes this dessert visually appealing and adds a natural sweetness.
If you’re looking to make the dish even more customizable, feel free to switch up the fruits. You could use blueberries, raspberries.
or even peaches in place of the strawberries or pineapple. A splash of vanilla extract can be added for an extra layer of flavor.
The frozen fruit salad can also be made without bananas if you prefer a different mix.
If you want a little extra crunch, consider adding some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the mixture before freezing.
This can add a delightful contrast to the smooth cream cheese base.
While it’s important to drain the pineapple well before adding it to the mixture, you can also save the juice for a smoothie or use it in another recipe.
For those who prefer a lighter version, you could substitute the whipped topping with a reduced-fat option or even a non-dairy alternative for a healthier take.
Ensure your serving dish has enough space in the freezer, as the fruit salad will need room to freeze evenly.
If you’re using a loaf pan or casserole dish, be sure to line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Once the salad is frozen, don’t forget to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
This slight thawing will make it easier to scoop and serve, ensuring the perfect consistency.
Tips
Make sure to use fully softened cream cheese to avoid lumps in the mixture. This step is essential for a smooth and creamy texture.
If you prefer a more firm texture, you can freeze the salad for a longer time, allowing it to become more solid.
However, avoid freezing it for too long, as it may become too hard to scoop.
To add a bit of a zesty twist, try incorporating a teaspoon of lemon or lime zest into the mixture before freezing.
The citrus will enhance the natural sweetness of the fruit.
If you have a sweet tooth, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup can be added to the mixture for extra sweetness before freezing.
For easier cleanup, consider using a disposable plastic wrap to cover the fruit salad before freezing. This will make it easier to store and serve.
Consider topping the salad with some extra fresh fruit just before serving to elevate its appearance. A few sprigs of mint or a sprinkle of shredded coconut can also add a nice touch.
If you’re planning to serve the frozen fruit salad at a party, consider making individual portions in cupcake liners or small cups.
This will make serving easy and prevent the salad from melting before guests are ready to enjoy it.
Conclusion
This Frozen Fruit Salad is a wonderfully refreshing and simple dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
With minimal preparation and a mix of vibrant, sweet fruits, it’s sure to be a hit among family and friends.
Whether enjoyed as a treat on a hot day or as a delicious side dish, this frozen fruit salad provides a cool, creamy, and fruity delight in every bite.